Fort Wilkins Historic State Park
Guide

While visiting Fort Wilkins take the time to experience the rich history of the park by visiting one of the fifteen historical buildings. The buildings accommodate people of all ages and abilities. Each building or point of interest has accessible parking. Copper Lighthouse is also a favorite place for guests to visit. The buildings and the lighthouse operate seasonally, so if you plan to visit during the off-season, be aware that some of the facilities might not be open. For hours of operation, contact the park.

Hikers have many choices of trails to explore when visiting Fort Wilkins. For hikers who don’t want to leave the park’s boundaries, the four-mile out and back walking trail that runs parallel to the park’s boundaries. This path is a perfect short hike that provides scenic views of Lake Fanny Hooe and Lake Superior. For longer, more rigorous hikes and backpacking excursions, try the sections of the 51.7-mile Keweenaw State Trail or the three-mile Copper Harbor Trail. Both trails are close to the park, so visitors don’t have to travel far to access a trailhead.

Step back in time to the year 1870 and become a part of the park’s history through the Living History Program. During the summer months, park interpreters dress and act as members of the military garrison and teach guests using characterization and interaction. While listening and connecting with the cast, visitors will simultaneously learn about the period in and around the American Civil War, and the role that Fort Wilkins played during this critical time in the country’s history. Contact the park for information on the dates and the times when the program comes to life.

Fort Wilkins Historic State Park has so many things to see and do, that campers staying here might forget about one of the most important aspects of camping, which is getting outside and enjoying nature. The day use areas within the park help campers unwind and relax next to Lake Superior or Lake Fanny Hooe. The park has plenty of wildlife and birds passing through, so why not have a picnic lunch next to the lighthouse and then take a walk to visit the park store, and then meander back to more of the scenic viewpoints while keeping a watch for your favorite animals?

Lake Fanny Hooe is an ideal fishing location because guests have the choice to fish from the shore, a pier, or a boat. The 227-acre lake allows fishing year round. So whether you are a fair-weather fisher or an ice fisher, you have plenty of opportunities to try and catch a yellow perch, walleye, smallmouth bass, brook trout or rainbow trout. Anglers may use different types of bait, such as artificial bait, worms or minnows. If you plan on fishing, please note that the state of Michigan requires that all anglers 17 and older possess a valid fishing license.

If you crave outdoor activities year-round, and you can’t wait for the weather to warm to head out to the trails, then consider taking up the sport of cross country skiing. Skiers who prefer ungroomed trails can stick to the four miles of multi-use trails that run along the park’s boundaries, or try some of the groomed and ungroomed trails nearby. The Copper Harbor trails begin at the trailhead behind the Copper Harbor Welcome Center, and these trails are multi-looped trails that offer skiers many different routes. The trailhead is close to heated restrooms and parking. Skiers who want more details can pick up a laminated map from some of the local shops.